Telangana government cancels ticket price hike for Ram Charan's 'Game Changer'

Hyderabad: The Telangana government has withdrawn its decision to allow a hike in ticket prices for the much-anticipated Ram Charan starrer, Game Changer. The move follows a High Court ruling and public safety concerns, including the restriction of early morning shows.

On January 3, the state government had approved a temporary increase in ticket prices for Game Changer, allowing Rs 150 extra for multiplex theatres and Rs 100 for single theatres. The government had also allowed six screenings on January 10, including an early 4:00 am show. From January 11 to 19, five shows a day were permitted with a Rs 100 price increase for multiplexes and Rs 50 for single theatres.

However, following a court order, the government decided to roll back these price hikes and ban early morning shows until "public interest, health, and safety are duly considered." These changes will be effective from January 16.

Court's intervention, public safety concerns

The High Court issued an interim ruling on January 10, directing the state to review the price hike decision and halt the early morning screenings. This decision came in the wake of concerns raised after a tragic stampede during the premiere of Pushpa 2 in December 2024, where a woman lost her life.

Opposition BRS MLA T. Harish Rao criticized the Congress government for allowing the ticket price hike, especially given the tragic incident during the Pushpa 2 premiere. Telangana Cinematography Minister K Venkata Reddy had previously voiced opposition to the ticket price increase in the Legislative Assembly.

The government’s reversal of its decision comes as a response to both the court’s directive and public outcry over the safety of moviegoers.